sei3 min6 co2 go1四面楚歌
Jyutpingsei3 min6 co2 go1
Yalesei mihn chó gō
Definition
Beset by difficulties on all sides; utterly isolated and without help.
writtenother
How it's used
This idiom originates from a historical account of the Chu-Han Contention, where the Chu army was surrounded by the Han forces and heard the songs of their homeland coming from all sides. It carries a heavy, dramatic tone often used in news reports or formal storytelling to describe someone who has lost all support. Unlike simple phrases for being busy or stressed, this implies a total lack of allies or options.
Examples
He is currently facing hostility on all sides, and no one is willing to help him.
Facing this situation where you are isolated and under attack, how do you plan to resolve it?
Related words
Common phrases
to fall into a state of being surrounded and isolated
Common mistake
Learners often mistake this for a simple description of being busy or having many tasks. It specifically describes a state of being trapped or isolated by enemies or negative circumstances, not just having a heavy workload.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
